Updated 21 October 2024: Tropical Storm Oscar is forecasted to shift northeast, moving away from the United States. It remains no threat to Clinton County or any part of the U.S. coastline as it tracks further out into the Atlantic.
Heads Up Message: Tropical Weather Activity on the Rise – Time to Review Your Preparations
As we monitor increasing tropical weather activity in the Western Caribbean Sea, this is a timely reminder that hurricane season is not over. With the possibility of tropical weather potentially impacting the US in about two weeks, now is the time to act.
It’s not a question of if AL95 will result in a hurricane who's remnants could affect our county; it’s more about, “What can you do with two weeks’ time to prepare for that potential?”
Preparedness is an insurance policy you manage yourself—one that’s tailored to your household’s needs and resources. Even a small amount of preparedness is better than none. Use this time wisely to review your emergency plans and update your kits, ensuring you’re ready for potential severe wind events, long-duration power outages, and the changing seasonal weather. This is particularly important for those with electrically powered medical equipment at home—review and improve your emergency power plans wherever possible.
Our county is fortunate to have incredible first responders—both volunteer and paid—who put themselves in harm's way to protect and save lives. However, as with many rural communities, their numbers are dwindling. When disaster strikes, you and your household are your true first responders. Depending on road conditions and the volume of emergency calls, help may take time to arrive. What you do during that critical period could make the difference between life and death. The choice to prepare is ultimately yours.
Here’s how you can make the most of the time you have:
Create an Emergency Plan: Visit Clinton County EMA Emergency Plan Guide for resources.
Build an Emergency Kit: Learn what essentials you need at Emergency Kit Guide.
Stay Informed: Sign up for alerts at Clinton County EMA Alerts to know when it’s time to put your plan into action.
Prepare your Pets: Don’t forget about your pets. Find tips at Pet Emergency Preparedness.
Currently, the most likely weather threat is located in the Western Caribbean Sea, southeast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It has a 50% chance of cyclone formation within the next 48 hours as it slowly moves toward the Gulf of Mexico. While the outcome remains uncertain, the window to prepare is open—take advantage of it.
A Look Back: Learning from Past Events
The recent remnants of Hurricane Helene caused significant damage across the southeastern United States, resulting in multi-day power outages for our county. It serves as a stark reminder to check and update your preparations. Our region has a history of impacts from post-hurricane remnants; remember Hurricane Ike in 2008, which left some Clinton County residents without power for over three weeks.
Don’t wait until the storm is on your doorstep. Act now to ensure your household is prepared for potential impacts.
Current North Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico Conditions:
Near the Leeward Islands (AL94):
A trough of low pressure is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Development is unlikely as it moves west-northwestward.
Formation chance through 48 hours: 10%
Formation chance through 7 days: 10%
Western Caribbean Sea (AL95): 👈 Keep and eye on this one 👀
Showers and thunderstorms are associated with a broad area of low pressure north of eastern Honduras. Conditions could support a short-lived tropical depression or storm before moving over Belize and the Yucatan Peninsula on Saturday. Regardless, expect heavy rainfall in parts of Central America and southern Mexico.
Formation chance through 48 hours: 50%
Formation chance through 7 days: 50%
Become a Volunteer and Make a Difference in Your Community
Volunteering is a powerful way to support your community, especially during times of
disaster. By joining a volunteer organization, you can play a crucial role in helping your neighbors and making a real impact when it’s needed most. Several reputable organizations offer training and opportunities for volunteers of all skill levels:
American Red Cross: Provides disaster relief and emergency support, offering training for shelter operations, disaster assessment, and more.
American Regulators USA Disaster Relief: Focuses on quick response and assistance to communities impacted by natural disasters, including rebuilding efforts and supply distribution.
Team Rubicon: A veteran-led organization that combines military experience with emergency response, assisting communities with disaster recovery and relief operations.
Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief (Ohio): Provides a range of services such as cleanup, food services, and emotional and spiritual care in the aftermath of disasters.
The Salvation Army: Offers assistance through its emergency disaster services, providing food, shelter, and long-term recovery support.
This is not a complete list of volunteer organizations—there are many more opportunities to get involved and make a difference in your community. Explore local groups and other national organizations to find the best fit for your skills and interests. By volunteering with any of these organizations, you can gain valuable skills, form strong community connections, and be ready to respond when disaster strikes. Explore these opportunities to see where your skills and passion can make the most difference!
Final Reminder
Hurricane season isn’t over—let’s stay vigilant and prepared. Use the resources above to ensure your family’s safety and resilience.
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